CUT Mac ’n’ Cheese

INGREDIENTS

• 6 Tbs. (3/4 stick) unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
• 6 Tbs. all-purpose flour
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups milk
• 1 1/4 cups crème fraîche
• 1 1/2 tsp. fleur de sel, plus more, to taste
• 3 3/4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 3/4 cups shredded aged cheddar cheese
• Freshly ground white pepper, to taste
• 1 lb. cavatappi, cooked al dente, cooled in ice water and drained
• 3/4 cup fresh brioche bread crumbs